New nursing initiative to improve healthcare in Horowhenua
Otaki MP Nathan Guy is welcoming the use of highly trained nurses to see patients waiting for a GP in Horowhenua as a good short term practical solution.
The new programme involves senior nurses consulting patients and arranging referrals to specialists or GPs, if necessary.
“It makes sense to utilise the skills of highly trained nurses. They can organise any further treatment needed and provide peace of mind for concerned patients.
“The new service will be based at Horowhenua Health Centre and will provide a full health assessment of patients. I’m looking forward to it kicking off in February next year.
“The shortage of GPs is a real problem in provincial areas throughout New Zealand and around the world. The Government is addressing this issue through increased medical training places and bonding GPs into hard to staff locations. In the short term this new nursing initiative ensures people are getting good quality care.
“We also have the roll out of St Johns paramedic 12 month trial in Horowhenua which will help treat patients in their own home - ultimately reducing ambulance trips to Palmerston North hospital.
“Local paramedics are being trained to provide even more clinical skills and services. From December there will be a larger range of treatment available for local patients which is great news.”